Hello Marklart:
As you can see from the volume of responses, there are many of us that use damascus subgauges for upland hunting. The only one I (can afford) to own is a petite 5.25 lb. Cashmore 16 ga. sidelock with nitro proved barrels. It is a joy to shoot all day with 7/8oz loads at about 8,500 f-lbs for target, and I up it to 1oz loads at slightly higher pressure for hunting everything up to sharptails and wild pheasant.
It is a gun that has been kept in top condition since assembly in 1925 (the barrels were struck much earlier, but apparently fitted to a receiver for the first time well into the 20th century), and I have no hesitations using it afield. Keep your eye out and I'm sure you can find a gem somewhere but expect to spend at least $1K.
Ben
